Defiantly Claims Melbourne Cup Berth With Prix Kergorlay Win

Defiantly has clinched a ballot-exempt spot for the prestigious Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) following a dominant performance in the Group 2 Prix Kergorlay (3000m) at Deauville on Sunday. This success positions trainer Joseph O'Brien with another potent contender for a race where he has a notable track record.

The Prix Kergorlay, for the first time this year, offered a Melbourne Cup Golden Ticket, guaranteeing the winner exemption from the ballot for the Flemington classic on November 3rd. Defiantly seized this golden opportunity in impressive fashion, emulating the path of past Melbourne Cup winners.

Americain triumphed in the Kergorlay before clinching the Melbourne Cup in 2010, and Protectionist mirrored this achievement four years later. Protectionist's acquisition by an Australian Bloodstock partnership post-Deauville win adds a significant historical layer to Defiantly's success for his ownership group.

Joseph O'Brien's own history with the Melbourne Cup is well-documented. Rekindling provided him with his first Melbourne Cup victory in 2017, followed by Twilight Payment's triumph in 2020. Goodie Two Shoes notably finished second for the stable in the previous year's race.

The four-year-old gelding had been on an upward trajectory through the staying handicap ranks during the summer. He was narrowly defeated, finishing a head behind Kizlyar in the Class 2 Ascot Stakes (over two miles and four furlongs) at Royal Ascot. Subsequently, he defeated Berkshire Sundance by three lengths in the Class 2 Coral Goodwood Handicap (over two miles and four-and-a-half furlongs) at Goodwood.

His maiden outing in Group company marked a further step forward. Jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle allowed Defiantly to set a steady rhythm at the front of the field. The pace gradually quickened from a considerable distance out, stretching the field before the final turn, with the leader maintaining composure as rivals began to feel the pressure.

When challenged to accelerate in the straight, Defiantly responded with enthusiasm, drawing clear to defeat Santorini Star by five and a half lengths. Double Major secured third place, a further five lengths behind the runner-up.

"He's a solid horse and has improved with every run," McMonagle told Sky Sports Racing. "He's a strong stayer, he doesn't do too much and he's always behind the bridle which helps over this trip. Every question you ask him, he responds good. There doesn't seem to be a bottom to him, he continues to stay. He's a solid candidate for the Melbourne Cup and handles the fast ground. He's got all the right qualities for it."

The pedigree also boasts an Australian connection. Defiantly is a half-brother to Group 1 Underwood Stakes winner Buckaroo and to Middle Earth, who finished third in the 2025 Group 1 Melbourne Cup.

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